A beautifully performed program of musical and topical interest Ñ songs about war.

This program grew out of Stephen Swanson's frustration with the coverage of Operation Iraqi Freedom and with his son's decision to enlist. He and his wife began researching song dealing with war and formulated a program of songs about the individuals involved in America's historic military conflicts, their friends and their families. The primary consideration was the texts rather than the settings. The fervent nationalistic patriotism of World War I; the intimate personal glimpses in to World War II; the satirical songs from the Cold War; the Vietnam-era protest songs; the setting of Abraham Lincoln's letter to a mother who lost five sons Ñ all demonstrate the conflict between the need to fight and the horrific losses war imposes.

William Steffe, composerBattle Hymn of the RepublicStephen Swanson, baritone, David Gompper, piano

Review:

"...the recital is truly inspired. ...the performances are heartfelt. Mr. Swanson has an excellent baritone voice and he knows how to use it, and Gompper plays the accompaniments with great spirit." (Arthur S. Leonard "Leonard Link")

"It is a testament to the art of the performers and the ability of art to probe the human spirit." (Gramophone)

"...this is a superb recording, one best savored as it was conceived, in a single recital-length hearing." (Fanfare)